Kyle Pott

You stopped off for a two minute small-talk session with the boss/buddy/neighbor, they've yammered on for a 20 minute chat explosion, and you need to get out! Lifehack.org explains how you can wiggle yourself out of these hold-ups without offending the long-winded conversationalist. Here's how:

There are 3 reasons you might stay in a conversation that you want to leave:

You're too polite - Many of us feel like it's rude to leave someone alone after talking to them for a few minutes. It isn't. People have things to do, and talking is just talking. As long as you excuse yourself politely, your exit will be comfortable.

You're afraid or lazy - Being in a conversation can be comforting and you might stick it out just because it's easier than heading out on your own into the 'unknown'. This isn't true and you might be selling your time short if you settle.

You don't know what else to do - Similar to the previous, this is counting on your lack of imagination. There is always something else to do and someone else to talk to. Grab a drink or hit the toilet and then find a friend or another contact.

Share your techniques for getting out of the verbal death grip in the comments.